WILLEMSTAD - In 2023, 68 tourists filed reports of robberies in Curaçao, a concerning trend jeopardizing the safety of visitors on the island. These figures were disclosed by Member of Parliament for the coalition party MFK Ramon Yung, who drew attention to the security situation on the island. 

In addition to tourists, 215 residents also reported incidents of robberies, bringing the total to 283 cases. 

Most reports of tourist robberies occurred in popular tourist areas such as Bapor Kibra, Bullenbaai, Penstraat, Skaloweg, Pietermaai, and Bredestraat Otrobanda. These areas attract many visitors annually and are crucial to the island's tourism sector. 

The reports of robberies in 2023 are part of a broader pattern of crime on the island. Yung presented an overview of crime statistics over the past years, indicating that while the number of murders has decreased since 2017, the number of robberies fluctuates. In 2017, Curaçao recorded 482 robberies, a number that has varied in the subsequent years, with 169 cases in the past year. 

Yung emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and a targeted approach to ensure the safety of both residents and tourists. "It is crucial to analyze where the concentrations of crime are located so that we can intervene more effectively," said the parliamentarian. He also highlights the importance of economic growth as a means to reduce crime but notes that in times of financial constraints, an increase in crime, including robberies, is often observed. 

The discussion about the safety of tourists is not new. Earlier, it was noted that there is a lack of control and security in certain tourist areas. Yung calls for collaboration with stakeholders to improve the safety situation for visitors: "We should not only focus on economic growth but actively work together with all involved parties to provide our tourists with a safe experience."